U19s' Chilean reward

The win means that Marley's side topped their group to book a semi-final berth against Norway on Thursday, with Germany and France contesting the other semi.

Dani Buet netted the only goal in the 20th minute direct from a free-kick.

After a tough first half when the Spaniards pressed the young Lions high up the pitch, chances were at a premium, but the second half saw an improved England performance, with Ellen White rattling the crossbar 15 minutes from the end with a header from 6 yards.

Danielle Hill needed to be on her toes to smother a couple of late half chances but for Marley, it was the maturity of the performance from her squad that pleased her most.

"I'm really delighted that the girls have made it to the semi's, as well as the U20 World Cup" Marley told TheFA.com.

"With the squad we have - which contains a couple of U17 players - we've had to really dig in and when the pressure was on today, the players dealt with it in a way which shows that they are developing something which Coaches are always looking for, but can't always be taught: a winning mentality."

England's U19s have twice before reached the semi finals of the tournament, and back in 2001 used it as a springboard for reaching the youth World Cup in Canada.

Until now though, England have not made the Final of the UEFA Women's U19 European Championship, something which MM believes is well within the capabilities of her players.

"Norway are strong, athletic and very direct and we believe that a number of their players have U23 experience" added Marley "but for us, we haven't been on top of our game yet.

"We still topped our group beating one of the favourites (France), so we're all looking forward to Friday now.

"There's definitely more to come from this squad but they've already shown they have guts, and the exciting thing is these players also have 16 months to continue to grow together."